Suzy Fleming Leonard: Cheers to those who tackle momhood

5:06 PM,
May 10, 2013

Ellis and Mary Fleming celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2008.

Written by

Suzy Fleming Leonard
| FLORIDA TODAY

I know my childhood wasn't as idyllic as I remember it. There must have been tantrums, fights with my sisters, bitter disappointments.

If I try hard enough, the DVR in my mind replays a scene where I'm sobbing on the twin bed in my room, absolutely convinced my mother gave birth to me only for the free child labor. I mean, really? How could she expect me to finish my chores before going to a movie with my friends?

Sure, there were groundings and punishments, weeks at a time when we weren't allowed to watch our favorite TV shows because of some minor transgression. ...